Types of discrimination (protected characteristics)
It is against the law to discriminate against anyone because of:
age,
gender reassignment,
being married or in a civil partnership,
being pregnant or on maternity leave,
race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin,
religion or belief,
sex,
sexual orientation.
You are protected from discrimination:
at work,
in education,
as a consumer,
when using public services,
when buying or renting property,
as a member or guest of a private club or association.
You are legally protected from discrimination by the Equality Act 2010.
You are also protected from discrimination if:
you are associated with someone who has a protected characteristic, for example a family member or friend,
you have complained about discrimination or supported someone else’s claim.
Action against discrimination
You can do something voluntarily to help people with a protected characteristic. This is called positive action.
Taking positive action is legal if people with a protected characteristic:
are at a disadvantage,
have particular needs,
are under-represented in an activity or type of work.